Yes, most members of Stray Kids, being male South Korean citizens, will be required to fulfill mandatory military service.
South Korea mandates military service for nearly all able-bodied male citizens, typically before they turn 28 years old (Korean age). This is a legal obligation aimed at national defense.
Enlistment Requirements for Stray Kids Members
Based on general regulations and specific insights regarding the group:
- Age Limit: All eligible members of Stray Kids will need to enlist by the time they reach the age of 28.
- Citizenship Exemptions: For members like Bang Chan and Felix, who hold foreign citizenship (Australian in their case), exemption from Korean military service would typically require them to affirm their foreign nationality and potentially drop any existing Korean citizenship, if applicable under specific circumstances related to their birth or acquisition of citizenship.
- First Enlistee: Lee Know was projected to be one of the first members to enlist, with an estimated timeframe around 2026.
Projected Enlistment Timeline (Example)
While exact dates depend on individual circumstances, deferments, and the military's schedule, here's an illustrative timeline based on available information and common practices, using Lee Know as an anchor:
| Member | Birth Year | Projected Enlistment Age (Korean) | Estimated Enlistment Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lee Know | 1998 | ~28 | 2026 | Projected as one of the first to enlist. |
| Bang Chan | 1997 | N/A | Potentially Exempt | May be exempt due to foreign citizenship if no Korean citizenship holds. |
| Changbin | 1999 | ~28 | 2027-2028 | Following Lee Know based on age. |
| Hyunjin | 2000 | ~28 | 2028-2029 | Following older members. |
| Han | 2000 | ~28 | 2028-2029 | Following older members. |
| Felix | 2000 | N/A | Potentially Exempt | May be exempt due to foreign citizenship if no Korean citizenship holds. |
| Seungmin | 2000 | ~28 | 2028-2029 | Following older members. |
| I.N | 2001 | ~28 | 2029-2030 | The youngest member, would enlist later. |
Note: These are estimated timelines, and actual enlistment dates can vary based on individual deferrals, health, and national policies.
Typically, military service in South Korea lasts between 18 to 21 months, depending on the branch of service (e.g., army, navy, air force, or public service). Idols often serve as active-duty soldiers, but some may also serve in alternative forms if eligible.
